They Shoot Horses, Don’t They highlights desire as a completely debilitating force when rooted in economic survival. Featuring an ensemble cast, including Jane Fonda and Michael Sarrazin, the film chronicles contestants competing in a gruelling dance marathon, set against the backdrop of the Great Depression. Sydney Pollack’s rarely screened masterpiece highlights how far people are willing to go when desperation eclipses dignity.

They Shoot Horses, Don’t They is screening as part of Women in Flux, presented in association with the National Film and Television School’s Film Studies, Programming and curation MA.